Genome Gift

The International Wheat Genome Sequencing Consortium (IWGSC) will receive approximately $1.37 million from Bayer CropScience to support the physical mapping of 21 wheat chromosomes. A DNA sequence of the wheat genome could help in identifying and studying new wheat genes, as well as supporting the efficient breeding of new varieties.

"The physical maps for isolated, individual wheat chromosomes will facilitate direct linkage to traits used in the field and in breeding while also removing a significant roadblock to achieving the reference sequence," says Rudi Appels, IWGSC co-chair.

The contribution is a good example of how public–private partnerships can boost large-scale research that could benefit the entire industry, says Catherine Feuillet, head of trait research at Bayer CropScience. Visit www.wheatgenome.org for more.